BAYAN LEPAS: Pantai Esen, once a popular spot for visitors and photographers to admire sunsets, is now plagued by muddy sludge, foul odours, and blackened water.
The situation is believed to be linked to the nearby Silicon Island development, which has worsened over the past two months with increasingly unbearable smells.
Although the beach still offers stunning views, the odour is noticeable from 100m away. Due to the dark, muddy water, no visitors are seen swimming or playing in the area.
Water sports operator Jaffar Ishak, 55, said Pantai Esen was once considered a "hidden gem," frequently photographed and featured in postcards. It was known for its clean, sandy beach, making it a favourite spot for family outings and activities like kayaking and boating. The beach also served as a popular stop for hikers and offered ATV services.
"On weekends, the beach used to attract large crowds, especially during sunset, often causing traffic jams. Now, some visitors leave within half an hour because they can't tolerate the foul odour of the mud.
"Many feel misled by social media portrayals and frustrated for not being warned about the conditions before renting buggies," Jaffar said.
Visitors now have to walk nearly 1km to reach the beach or pay RM5 for a one-way buggy ride provided by local residents.
Jaffar refrained from blaming any specific party but urged authorities to take action before the situation worsens.
"I'm not an expert, but my income from water sports has dropped by 70 per cent. The mud makes it difficult to launch kayaks and boats, and cleaning them afterward is a hassle," he added.
Meanwhile, local resident Jaffar Osman, 66, voiced his disappointment with the project developer, saying they consulted fishermen but not the residents.
He said that locals could no longer earn income from fishing or collecting clams, which are now often found dead and in declining numbers.
"The developer never discussed the situation with the villagers, but we're the ones who have to endure the smell every day.
"We've breathed fresh air since childhood, but now the odour is unbearable, and the situation is getting worse. It's heartbreaking. We hope this issue is addressed soon before things get even worse," he said.
Videos of the sludge that went viral on social media last week showed mud nearly 5m deep along the beach.